Retirement by the beach sounds like a dream, but it doesn’t have to come with a million-dollar price tag. Around the world, there are stunning coastal towns where your money stretches farther, giving you both ocean views and a high quality of life. If you’re looking to retire in style without overspending, these 11 beach destinations are worth a serious look.
Da Nang, Vietnam
A blend of city comforts and relaxed beach life, Da Nang is one of Vietnam’s most livable cities. You’ll find modern condos, top-notch healthcare, and delicious food — all at a fraction of the cost you’d pay in the West. The soft sands of My Khe Beach make every day feel like a vacation.
Mazatlán, Mexico
Mazatlán is a favorite among expats for its affordability, walkable colonial center, and 13 miles of beachfront. Healthcare is excellent and reasonably priced, and you can rent a beachfront apartment for much less than in other resort towns. The local community is welcoming, and the seafood is outstanding.
Kotor, Montenegro
Nestled on a picturesque bay surrounded by mountains, Kotor offers a serene and scenic retirement spot. Property is still relatively affordable compared to other European coastal towns. You’ll enjoy a Mediterranean lifestyle without the crowds or high costs of neighboring countries.
Lagos, Portugal
Located in the Algarve, Lagos delivers sunshine, cliffside views, and a strong expat community. Portugal offers tax incentives for foreign retirees and great public healthcare. While prices are rising, it’s still one of the more affordable beach spots in Western Europe.
Roatán, Honduras
Roatán is a Caribbean island known for its turquoise waters, coral reefs, and expat-friendly vibe. It’s part of the Bay Islands and offers a relaxed pace of life, low cost of living, and easy access to diving and snorkeling. English is widely spoken, and property prices are reasonable compared to other Caribbean hotspots.
Taghazout, Morocco
This laid-back surf town is gaining popularity for its affordability and warm weather. Life here is simple and calm, with fresh produce markets and beach cafés lining the coast. Retirees love the low cost of living and the chance to live steps from the sea.
Gulfport, Mississippi, USA
Located along the Gulf Coast, Gulfport offers warm weather, sandy beaches, and a much lower cost of living than most coastal U.S. cities. You’ll find a friendly, small-town feel with access to healthcare and local amenities. Plus, there’s no state tax on retirement income in Mississippi, making it even more budget-friendly.
Pensacola, Florida, USA
Pensacola offers beautiful white-sand beaches, a charming historic downtown, and Florida’s no state income tax benefit. It’s more affordable than many other parts of the state, with a strong sense of community and access to good healthcare. The Gulf waters and mild winters make it a solid retirement pick.
Salinas, Ecuador
Salinas is a bustling beach city with high-rise condos, a lively malecón (boardwalk), and lots of modern conveniences. It’s more developed than smaller towns like Canoa but still maintains a low cost of living. Retirees love the warm climate, affordable healthcare, and beachside lifestyle without big-city chaos.
Almuñécar, Spain
Tucked between mountains and the Mediterranean, Almuñécar is a lesser-known gem in Spain’s Costa Tropical. It’s quieter and cheaper than the Costa del Sol, but still has all the sunny charm. Think tapas, fresh seafood, and beach strolls — all without breaking the bank.
Port Aransas, Texas, USA
Set on Mustang Island, Port Aransas is a laid-back beach town with a warm climate and lower home prices than most coastal areas. It’s popular for fishing, boating, and birdwatching — and the vibe is casual and unpretentious. Texas also has no state income tax, which is a big plus for retirees.
Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.